On August 23, 2025, at approximately 4:38 p.m., New York State Police assigned to the New York State Fair detail observed a large group of motorcycles, minibikes, and ATVs causing a disturbance in the parking lot of a business at 800 Erie Boulevard West in the City of Syracuse. Approximately 100 riders were observed performing burnouts and blocking customers from safely entering or leaving the business. Throughout the day, multiple reports were received of similar groups riding recklessly, blocking traffic, and creating disturbances. Due to the proximity to the New York State Fairgrounds and the large number of pedestrians in the area, additional State Police resources were deployed to prevent the groups from entering the Fairgrounds and endangering visitors. When Troopers attempted to stop the group as it traveled westbound on Erie Boulevard, the riders failed to comply and continued committing numerous Vehicle and Traffic Law violations. At the intersection of Erie Boulevard West and West Genesee Street, one minibike rider collided with another bike, which then struck an uninvolved vehicle stopped at the intersection. Troopers approached the operator of the minibike that caused the crash, later identified as Oscar R. Blair , age 25, of Syracuse. Blair attempted to flee both the crash scene and the lawful traffic stop. When Troopers attempted to detain him, he actively resisted. After a brief struggle, Blair was taken into custody without injury. His unregistered 2019 Kawasaki minibike was secured and towed from the scene. Blair was initially issued multiple traffic tickets, returnable to Syracuse City Court. Following a review of the incident and body-worn camera footage, additional charges were pursued. On August 29, 2025, Blair was arrested and charged with the following: Obstructing Governmental Administration 2nd Degree (PL 195.05) Resisting Arrest (PL 205.30) Reckless Driving (VTL 1212) Disorderly Conduct (PL 240.20[5]) Blair was processed at SP North Syracuse and transported to the Onondaga County Justice Center to await arraignment. The New York State Police remain committed to ensuring public safety during the New York State Fair and will continue to enforce traffic and criminal laws against those who endanger the community.

According to Oneida County Sheriff, Robert Maciol, a Verona man was arrested following the report of a domestic incident.  On August 30, 2025, Road Patrol Deputies took a report of a physical domestic incident. Due to the nature of the case, the case was turned over to the Domestic Violence Unit for further investigation.  It was learned that during a physical domestic incident, the suspect, Andrew J. Helmer, pointed a long gun at the victim and also choked her until she lost consciousness. It was also reported that this occurred while there were 3 children present.   During the investigation it was learned that the subject was currently named on a order of protection related to a different person, which prohibits him from possessing firearms.   An extreme risk order was sought and granted, allowing all firearms inside the home to be seized at that time.  Ultimately, Helmer was charged with Criminal Possession of a weapon 3rd, Strangulation 2nd, and 3 counts of Endangering the welfare of a minor.  Investigator Renee DeLong  Criminal Investigations/Domestic Violence Oneida County Sheriff's Office

Suspicious Person with a Weapon Report at Destiny USA: On Thursday, August 28th, around 3:22 p.m., Syracuse Police Officers responded to a report of a suspicious person with a weapon in the area of North Geddes Street and Spencer Street. The caller informed 911 that they observed a white male walking with what appeared to be an AR-15 looking weapon. 911 dispatchers then received a second call, around 3:43 p.m., from a person who observed a male matching the same description in the area of Hiawatha Street and Solar Street. This caller reported seeing the male “cock the gun and sling it on his shoulder.” Several Officers responded to the area and began to search for the suspect. Drone units were activated and began to search the area. The Onondaga County Sheriff's Office was notified of the incident, and Air 1 was put on standby. Officers continued to search the area, which included the Creek Walk and Destiny USA. Around 4:04 p.m., a detective who was working the Destiny USA Mall detail was reviewing camera footage and reported to Officers that he observed the suspect on an escalator. At this time, the mall was placed on lockdown. The detective continued to follow the man and reported that he was in the area of the 110 Grill, in the food court. During this chaotic time, dispatch received another call reporting that there was a shot fired in the canyon area. It was determined, very quickly, that this was not accurate, as there were multiple Officers in that area. At 4:10 p.m., the male was detained, and it was determined that the supposed 'long gun' was actually an umbrella. The umbrella that was found had a samurai style handle, and was carried with a strap to be slung over one’s shoulder. It should be noted that this umbrella resembled a long gun, specifically the samurai handle, which looked like the barrel of a rifle. Officers continued to clear the area and quickly rendered it safe. The male was transported to the Syracuse Police Department, Criminal Investigations Division, for further questioning, and the mall was reopened shortly after. The male was fully cooperative with detectives. After a thorough investigation, which involved reviewing video footage and speaking with witnesses, the male was released from custody and will not face charges in this incident. Both the swift response of Officers to Destiny USA, as well as our presence on-site, led to the quick resolution of this incident. We are thankful for our continued partnership with mall ownership. Sources: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1198618365634799&set=a.217797457050233

New York State residents are being reminded to avoid posting signs, posters, or flyers on utility poles—a practice that may seem harmless but poses serious safety risks and legal consequences. According to state law, attaching materials with nails, staples, or tacks to telephone poles is prohibited. The restriction is in place to protect utility workers, motorists, and the public. A Hidden Danger for Utility Workers Climbing a utility pole is already a dangerous job. Sharp objects left behind from signs can puncture protective gloves and gear, potentially leading to life-threatening injuries. Even a single hidden nail can tear climbing equipment, placing workers at serious risk while maintaining or repairing power lines. Safety Risks for Drivers Improperly placed signs can also block visibility of important road signage or create distractions for drivers, increasing the chance of accidents. Fines and Enforcement Violators may face fines and penalties, as well as costs for removing unauthorized postings. Officials stress that while community events and services benefit from local promotion, telephone poles are not the place for advertisements. Safer Alternatives Residents looking to spread their message are encouraged to use approved community bulletin boards, digital displays, or local media outlets. These options provide visibility without compromising safety. Authorities urge New Yorkers to respect the law and help keep neighborhoods safe for utility workers, drivers, and neighbors.

Vienna, NY – August 26, 2025  – New York State Police are investigating an apparent drowning after the body of a Rome man was discovered in Fish Creek near the Treasure Isle RV Park. On August 25, 2025 , Troopers responded to a report of a possible body in the water off Haskins Road  in the town of Vienna. Upon arrival, they recovered the body of James E. Baker, 44, of Rome, NY . He was pronounced deceased at the scene. According to State Police, a preliminary investigation indicates the death was the result of an accidental drowning . The case remains under investigation pending autopsy results from the Oneida County Medical Examiner’s Office . State Police were assisted at the scene by the Vienna Fire Department, AmCare Ambulance, and the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit . Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigate-drowning-oneida-county

UPDATE: (August 23, 2025) On August 22, 2025, the New York State Police were contacted regarding cattle that had been located on Hax Road in La Fargeville, approximately four miles from their gated pasture on Dano Road. Three calves/steers were returned to their owner and secured. As a result, the New York State Department of Transportation has removed the signage warning motorists of loose cattle on Interstate 81. The animals no longer pose a hazard to the public. Original Release (August 1, 2025) Jefferson County, NY State Police Seek Public’s Help Identifying Owners of Cattle Found on Interstate 81 The New York State Police are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the owners of two brown bull calves found on Interstate 81 between La Fargeville and Orleans, Jefferson County. Troopers responded to the area after the animals were spotted along the highway. Both calves have identification tags, but attempts to locate the owners had been unsuccessful. Anyone with information regarding the possible owners of the animals was asked to contact State Police at (315) 366-6000. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/update-cattle-located-and-returned-owner

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. – On Saturday, August 23, 2025, at approximately 2:21 p.m., New York State Police responded to Smithfield Boulevard in Plattsburgh after receiving a report of a deceased individual. Authorities confirmed the man as 51-year-old Joseph J. Alix , a transient, who was discovered behind the Liquor and Wine Warehouse. Investigators say there were no immediate signs of foul play . The Clinton County Deputy Coroner arrived at the scene, pronounced Alix deceased, and ordered the removal of his body. An autopsy will be conducted at Glens Falls Hospital  at a date and time yet to be determined, officials said. The case remains an active investigation  by New York State Police. SOURRCES: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigate-death-town-plattsburgh

On August 17, 2025, members of the New York State Police were assigned to a traffic detail on Clinton Avenue in the City of Rochester. At approximately 10:00 p.m., Troopers stopped a gray Honda sedan for multiple Vehicle and Traffic Law violations. The driver and sole occupant, Kemuel Ovidio Garcia Alvarez, age 27, of Rochester, NY, was found to be unlicensed. During an inventory of the vehicle, Troopers located a loaded Taurus 9mm handgun with a high-capacity magazine. An additional extended magazine was also recovered nearby. Further investigation revealed the firearm had been reported stolen. Alvarez was transported to SP Rochester and processed without incident. He was charged with the following: Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd (C Felony) Three counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd (D Felony) Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 4th (Firearm) (E Felony) Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 1st (E Felony) Multiple Vehicle and Traffic Law violations Alvarez was remanded to the Monroe County Jail to await arraignment. https://troopers.ny.gov/news/unlicensed-driver-arrested-stolen-loaded-handgun-rochester

On August 20, 2025, State Police arrested Ashley A. Stewart , age 49, of Clinton, NY for: Abandonment of Animals (Agriculture and Markets Law §355), a misdemeanor. On August 7, 2025, State Police responded to the Humane Society of Rome on Lamphear Road following a report of a dog that had been abandoned and tied outside the facility after hours. A preliminary investigation revealed at approximately 4:49 p.m., a female suspect exited a white sport-utility vehicle and tied a Boxer mix to the exterior fence of the Humane Society before leaving the area. The dog, later identified as “Ollie,” appeared to be in good health and was secured by a neighbor until staff could provide care. Following a review of surveillance footage and information provided by witnesses, the suspect was identified. The Humane Society of Rome assumed care of the dog, which is reported to be in good condition. Stewart is scheduled to appear in Rome City Court at a later date. The New York State Police were assisted by the Humane Society of Rome during the investigation. https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-arrest-woman-abandoning-dog-humane-society-rome

SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Alex Calcano-Carrasquillo age 44, of Puerto Rico, was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison for money laundering and conspiring to possess with intent to distribute over 5 kilograms of cocaine.  Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, made the announcement. As part of his prior guilty plea, Calcano-Carrasquillo admitted that from July 2021 through July 2024, he conspired with others to distribute cocaine in Onondaga County.  As part of the conspiracy, Calcano-Carrasquillo, after receiving payment from his co-conspirators, mailed packages containing over 20 kilograms of cocaine from Puerto Rico to various addresses in Syracuse that were provided to him by Juan Correa, Sr. Senior United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby also ordered Calcano-Carrasquillo to serve a 5-year term of supervised release following his release from prison.  Co-defendant Juan Correa, Jr. previously pled guilty and was sentenced to 7 years in prison.  The remaining co-defendants in this case, Juan Correa, Sr. and Ashley Correa have pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Bringing the Puerto Rican source of supply in this conspiracy to justice for his role in flooding our local streets with poison for years is a testament to the close collaboration of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies up and down the East Coast. No stone will be left unturned in our pursuit of these sophisticated drug trafficking organizations.” DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III stated: “This case highlights the DEA’s focus on cutting off drug pipelines that bring cocaine from sources like Puerto Rico into New York communities. Working with our law enforcement partners, we are committed to disrupting these supply chains and preventing dangerous narcotics from reaching our streets.” Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation New York, stated: “Calcano-Carrasquillo is just another predator who chose to bring highly addictive drugs into our neighborhoods, continuing to prey on the vulnerable.  IRS-CI New York is proud to continue its work with the DEA and our law enforcement partners in ridding our communities of those who have no regard for the welfare of its people.  Today’s sentencing does exactly that.” Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, stated: “Alex Calcano-Carrasquillo was part of a drug trafficking organization that coordinated a cocaine pipeline from Puerto Rico to New York through the U.S. Mail. His conviction highlights how committed the U.S. Postal Inspection Service is to dismantling drug trafficking organizations that threaten the safety of our employees and the American people. We would like to thank our extraordinary law enforcement partners for their invaluable collaboration in this case. Together we will continue to be vigilant in disrupting criminal organizations that illegally utilize the U.S. Postal Service.” Joseph L. Cecile, Chief of the Syracuse Police Department, stated: “Law Enforcement is never stronger than when we partner together.  Together, we represent an omnipresent threat to criminal enterprises such as this one.  On behalf of the Syracuse Police Department, I would like to both thank and congratulate the U.S. Attorney’s Office and all of our law enforcement partners who successfully dismantled this drug trafficking organization.  Well done!" This case was investigated by the DEA, U.S. Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Syracuse Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Brown prosecuted the case. This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.   Updated August 20, 2025 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/drug-conspirator-sentenced-10-years-mailing-cocaine-puerto-rico-syracuse

Scammers Are Targeting Website Owners With Overpriced Domain Offers Small business owners and website operators are being warned about a growing wave of domain selling scams , where con artists try to pressure people into paying hundreds of dollars for web addresses that are actually cheap and easy to buy. One recent example comes from a Central New York resident who received an unsolicited message that read: “Do you have any interest in cnyonline.com for 500 USD? I noticed you own the .org version, so maybe you will be interested in this one as well.” At first glance, it sounds like a legitimate offer. But in reality, the so-called “$500 domain” was available for just $17 through Wix.com  — a price anyone could have paid by registering the domain directly with a reputable registrar. How the Scam Works Scammers search for active websites that use domains ending in .org, .net, or other extensions , then reach out to the owner claiming they control the more “desirable” .com version . Their goal: convince the owner to pay hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars for something that might still be available at normal retail price. In some cases, scammers don’t own the domain at all. They rely on fear tactics, hoping the victim will rush into sending money without checking. Even when they do control the domain, the asking price is often grossly inflated compared to what a legitimate registrar would charge. Red Flags to Watch For Unsolicited offers:  Legitimate domain brokers rarely cold-email strangers. Huge markups:  A domain that costs $17 shouldn’t be resold for $500 unless it has significant brand value. Pressure tactics:  Messages often urge you to “act now” before someone else buys it. Shady payment requests:  If asked to pay via crypto, wire transfer, or PayPal “friends and family,” it’s almost certainly a scam. How to Protect Yourself Always check a domain’s availability on trusted registrars like GoDaddy, Namecheap, Wix, or Google Domains  before considering any offer. Use a WHOIS lookup  to see if the person really owns the domain. Don’t be rushed — scammers thrive on urgency. Report suspicious offers to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov . In the Central New York example, what looked like a $500 “exclusive deal” turned out to be nothing more than a $17 domain anyone could buy in minutes . As scams like these spread, experts remind website owners: “Do your homework before paying. If it sounds fishy, it probably is.” Here are the sources I used in the article above, separated for clarity: Sources: Wix Blog – How Much Does a Domain Name Cost? 👉 https://www.wix.com/blog/how-much-does-a-domain-name-cost TechRadar – Wix review and pricing 👉 https://www.techradar.com/reviews/wix ThemeIsle – How much does a Wix domain cost? 👉 https://themeisle.com/blog/wix-domain-cost/ WebsiteBuilderExpert – Wix Pricing (2025 Guide) 👉 https://www.websitebuilderexpert.com/website-builders/wix-pricing/ OneSmartSheep – How much is a Wix domain? 👉 https://onesmartsheep.com/post/how-much-is-a-wix-domain-pricing-comparison-monthly-yearly NoIP Blog – Domain Name Scams on the Rise 👉 https://blog.noip.com/domain-name-scams-on-the-rise ICDSoft – Five Popular Domain and Hosting Scams to Avoid 👉 https://www.icdsoft.com/blog/five-popular-domain-and-hosting-scams-to-avoid/ Wikipedia – Domain Name Scams 👉 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domain_name_scams

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the 25 th annual Fall Festival at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve in Cheektowaga on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors will have the opportunity to spend the day enjoying nature activities, exhibits, guided walks, live animals, and more. The festival is free and open to the public. “We are excited for this 25 th festival celebrating all things nature and environment in Western New York,” DEC Reinstein Woods Center Director Meaghan Boice-Green said . “Whether you are searching for a new place to hike or are looking to volunteer to help protect environment, participating organizations at the event provide a wide range of opportunities to learn and explore.” Recognizing 25 years of the annual Fall Festival, DEC is bringing back some favorite activities, like snowshoeing for kids and the Pond Exploration Zone, where visitors can get up close to pond animals and aquatic plants. Festivalgoers of all ages can also enjoy new activities like a tent-pitching competition. Kids will enjoy crafts, face painting, and costumed forest characters, and Smokey Bear will make a special appearance. Visitors can explore the forest through guided nature walks throughout the event, including a scavenger hunt adventure to find some of more than 30 participating nature and environmental organizations, including Penn Dixie Fossil Park, Erie County Soil and Water Conservation District, and the Western New York Land Conservancy.  There will be special presentations throughout the day, including a talk by Messinger Woods and a drone demonstration by DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers. The Buffalo Ukulele Club will provide lunchtime music for festivalgoers enjoying a picnic outdoors with treats available for purchase at Boy Scout Troop 500's food stand. Visitors are encouraged to green their transportation by riding the Parks Adventure Bus to the Festival. The bus will arrive at the festival throughout the day. More details can be found on the  NFTA website . Reinstein Woods is located at 93 Honorine Drive, off of Como Park Boulevard in Cheektowaga. An optional donation to Friends of Reinstein Woods is appreciated at the door to support the festival. For a complete list of festival activities, call (716) 683-5959 or visit the  festival webpage . https://dec.ny.gov/news/press-releases/2025/8/reinstein-woods-to-hold-annual-fall-festival-sept-20-2025